Nick Kypreos: Source confirms that Maple Leafs CEO Tim Leiweke is interested in bringing in Brendan Shanahan. Bob McKenzie: Confirms that the Leiweke has contacted Shanahan for a top hockey ops position.

Adam Proteau: Shanahan may not of the experience as a GM or President, but there are few who are more plugged-in to the hockey world.

Randy Sportak: The Flames offered Shanahan the President position last summer before Brian Burke took the position.

John Shannon: Source saying that Leiweke is “trying really hard to land him, but too early to know.”

Hope Smoke: Darren Dreger: “I haven’t talked to Shanahan but those that are familiar with this storyline suggest he’s keenly interested in the Leafs” … “Shanahan is also very respectful. I think he’d have a hard time coming into Toronto without the blessing of Nonis”

The Fourth Period: The Maple Leafs are also thought to have interest in Flyers assistant GM and Director of Hockey Operations Ron Hextall. It’s not known if the Leafs have asked permission to speak with Hextall, or if Leiweke plans on doing so. Also not known if the Flyers would grant the Leafs permission. Source close to Hextall said that if he were to leave the Flyers, he’d want ‘full authority” to run an organization. Bob Nicholson could also be a Leiweke target if Brandon Shanahan isn’t interested.

James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: It is hard to imagine Randy Carlyle returning. Phil Kessel, Morgan Rielly, Jakes Gardiner, Jonathan Bernier and James van Riemsdyk are players to build around. Joffrey Lupul and Nazem Kadri could be moved if they can find the right fit. The remaining roster is expendable. James Reimer is hoping to find a starting gig somewhere. Likely only one or two of Nikolai Kulemin, Dave Bolland, Mason Raymond, Jay McClement and Paul Ranger will be back next year. Cody Franson and Tim Gleason could be traded as well.

Hope Smoke: Nick Kypreos: “You have to give up something good to get something good. Kadri? Lupul is moveable but people are worried about his health”

Hope Smoke: Doug MacLean: “The Leafs need three to four defenseman. I could get rid of Gunnarsson. I would consider moving Gardiner. Rielly only untouchable”

Hope Smoke: Nick Kypreos: “Franson is a guy who could bring back some good value. Teams like him”

Mark Masters: Pending RFA Cody Franson: “Toronto was my favourite team growing up. This is my dream come true. I’m hopeful that I get to stay.”

Hope Smoke: Ray Ferraro: “I think the Leafs would look at moving Franson or Kadri.” … “What about Lupul? Is he part of the core? Do you look at moving him for someone younger and healthier?”

Hope Smoke: Ray Ferraro: “They’ll move Reimer but that’ll be for just a pick”

Hope Smoke: Ray Ferraro: “You walk away from Raymond and McClement. McClement makes too much $ for the role he plays”